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Casual Training Positions Australia Wide

Georgie — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 14:17:57 GMT

Contractor Training Positions – Workshop Trainer VIC, SA, WA, TAS, ACT

Why join our Garage Crew?

Galmatic is an all Australian company, with a strong passion about empowering women to take the driver’s seat when it comes to cars, driving and the road safety of their family and friends. Our philosophy is:

Independence Knowledge Fun Liberation Empowerment

We are a one stop destination for women looking for car care products services and advice; in an open and non threatening environment.

We think of ourselves as an old fashioned garage: where you know your customers and provide them with second to none service.

We specialise in:

§ Car Care workshops for Girls: which are fun, interactive and informative

§ The Galmatic Car Care Handbook for Girls – every girl’s glovebox essential

§ Premium Car Care Products

§ Information: Car Forum, blog and monthly newsletter

We are holistic in our approach; we are a total car care garage.

Educate – workshops, handbook, newsletter, blog
Provide and source – premium products
Promote ideas and discussion – car club forum

Who are we looking for?

Do you have a training background or perhaps just love to teach?

We are looking for enthusiastic and dynamic women, who enjoy working with people, are looking for flexible working hours and enjoy cars.

You don’t need to be a mechanic or even have extensive car knowledge; just a passion for working with people. Oh and of course excellent communication skills is a must!

We also love people with a sense of humour and a sense of fun.

As a Galmatic Workshop Trainer you will enjoy:

§ Facilitating fun and interactive car care workshops for women

§ As a contractor you enjoy the freedom of working for yourself and the support of Galmatic

§ Induction and ongoing training – in both car maintenance and business skills

§ Yearly training conference

§ Assistance from Galmatic at every step

§ Excellent remuneration

Galmatic Training Consultants are Casual Contractor roles

Do I need training?

We conduct Induction training quarterly (in Sydney) and have an annual training conference.

Induction training runs through all of the nuts and bolts of basic car care; but don’t worry, we have a fabulous facilitators manual that you get to take home.

We also go over facilitation skills training as well.

What will I earn?

Galmatic Workshops run for a minimum of two hours with 5 or more participants.

Here’s the good part.

Consultants earn $hour wagep/h + commission on sales generated within the workshop.

You will earn 45% for each Galmatic Car Care Handbook sold.

You will earn 10% of all other Galmatic products sold.

Joining the Crew

Interested in becoming a crew member? It’s easy.

1. First step is to tell us in 25 words or less why you would like to be a Galmatic Workshop Trainer. Just send us an email to info@galmatic.com

2. If we think your Galmatic material; we will email you our joining the crew application which asks you a little more about yourself

3. If you’re in Sydney we will catch up with you for a chat, if not we can chat on Skype

We look forward to hearing from you.

Happy and safe cruising.

Eleni Mitakos

Managing Director

eleni@galmatic.com

02 9970 6677

Fire Warning – in this heat cars need water too

Georgie — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 12:18:21 GMT

In NSW and parts of VIC we are have been issued with the catastrophic fire danger warning. Clever people clean their gutters, trim back trees and sweep away debris. They bring pets inside where it is cool and water the plants. The car however often gets forgotten during a heat wave.

No your car will not cry or whimper in the heat, but yes it does get thirsty and hot and a hot cat that overheats on a hot day on the freeway can be a nightmare.

All it takes girls is a quick check and you will stay cruising cool this summer.

1. Pop the bonnet

2. Look around for the water reservoir (don’t remove the radiator cap)

3. Fill the water reservoir with coolant, you can purchase this from any service station or even cheaper at automotive stores

4. Fill the windscreen wiper container with water

5. Check the air in your tyres and pump them up to the recommended pressure. You can find this info on the tyre placard which is usually on the inside of the driver’s door

6. Avoid sitting in traffic if you can (yeah like we do it on purpose I hear you say)!

And remember days at the beach are fun, but don’t forget to wash your car. Salt is the ultimate ageing factor for your car.

Defensive Driving for Women

Georgie — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 13:24:56 GMT

After 22 years of driving and teaching women in our ‘Know Your Car’ workshops – I was looking forward to a day at the track last Saturday. Mark was teaching our Inaugural ladies only Defensive Driving course ‘Control Your Car’.

Armed with biscuits and sandwiches and clothing which was way too hot for the day – I drove to Eastern Creek, ready for a day of learning. Of course a room full of girls isn’t hard to get chatting and nearly all of us admitted to thinking we were quite the girl racers.

The day started with theory – good driving techniques, essential do’s and don’ts and of course the footage that we all squirm from. Statistics, photos and crash tests dummies. Yes we had all seen them before, however it seemed so much more powerful with the image of the drag strip in the window behind us.

The need to reduce speed to reduce risk was articulated by Mark. Yes I know that I have heard speed is a major factor in road fatalities, but as with most people, I had always coupled it with luck, wet roads, other bad drivers etc. The point that came across clearly and strongly is that speed is a variable we can control – even when we can’t control the other factors.

All 13 women were just amazed, why don’t we learn this stuff at school – in this way? We groaned and shook our heads – no more speed racing we thought.

And then yes the time we had all been waiting for arrived– our turn on the track.

We all drove our cars to the start point as Mark hosed down the track. As if it wasn’t hard enough to practice emergency braking, we were going to do it on a wet road!

Girl after girl we went down the track, repeated at different speeds and had to brake suddenly as ‘Timmy’ jumped out in front of us. Emergency braking and quick decision making, with no radio on and the windows down suddenly 80 kms seemed so fast. How on earth can I stop a car when the radio is on, I am thinking about the day ahead and am tired? The concentration we were using was enormous – could we ever replicate this in real life?

But like Mark taught us – the aim of the day is not to be proficient at stopping at high speeds, but to realise the distance it takes to stop a car and the affects of speed on distance. Again reiterated for me was the need to reduce speed in order to reduce risk.

Speed and in essence my ability to control this variable could just save my and others lives.

Hot from the heat on off the track and with a head full of images and information I drove home – hands at 9am and 3pm and thought ‘When can I next get on the track?”

For dates of our next Galmatic Defensive Driving Day check out our website www.galmatic.com

Go ga ga for Go-Go dancing

Georgie — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 14:08:12 GMT

Moment of truth on Saturday when I tried to slip into last year’s swimming costume – where did the winter blubber come from? “How did this happen” I asked?

Well I retired as a dancer, stopped rowing and fell pregnant all in the same year – but the disappointment was none the less the same!

Do I really want to start social dancing again just to lose those extra kilos? And then whilst sitting on the couch (yes I know) I saw the sexy Anna on ‘Are you smarter than a 5^th grader’.

Anna teaches Go-Go dancing! How delicious, so I couldn’t help myself, I had to ask her all about it!

Now for all you retro gals who like to shake it – you’re going to love Anna's Go-Go Academy

We spoke to Anna about the new (but old) craze sweeping the dance floor.

Anna what is Go-Go dancing?

Go-go was the number one dance style of the 60s, and now its back and more fun than ever! Dances range from The Monkey to The Boogaloo and The Pony,

Go-go dancing is high-energy and is a great way to lose weight, but most of all its great fun!

Anna’s students learn the exciting art of go-go dancing in a fun and social environment (with a licensed bar!). No dance experience is necessary, and in every class, students learn a range of fun moves they can use straight away on the dance floor.

How long have you been teaching for?

I have been running my Go-Go Academy in Melbourne for 5 years, and will soon be adding more classes to the schedule. I am currently on a mission to amass a go-go army.

What is it about Go-Go dancing that makes you gaga?

Go-go dancing is high-energy and is a great way to lose weight, but most of all its great fun! Bring your mates! Bring your mum! Do the Pulp Fiction, The Pony and The Ski at your next party and impress your friends with your knowledge of these classic and exciting moves!

And your car Anna?

In between classes I love driving my 1964 AMC Rambler Classic sedan (V8 of course, vroom!),

Check out Anna’s Go-Go Academy and her gorgeous burlesque troupe Hi Ball Burlesque

In The Press

Georgie — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 12:22:13 GMT

Galmatic Crew at the Liverpool Holden showing the girls a thing or two about whats under the bonnet. Check out the article at http://www.liverpoolchampion.com.au/news/local/news/general/whats-under-the-bonnet-ask-a-woman/1568525.aspx Photo courtesy of Liverpool Champion, photo by Jonathon Ng

Layne Beachley Surf Classic

Georgie — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 20:28:47 GMT

Ladies be a pin up model for the day!

This Saturday 03 October 2009 the girls can look like a glamour gal – and help young girls reach their goals by helping the Layne Beachley Aim For The Stars Foundation.

Dee Why beach is hosting the Beachley Ladies Surf Classic - down by the Surf Club, girls will be having a ball being dolled up like 1950’s glamour gals and getting their photo taken with a pink hotrod!

The $5.00 donation will go to the Aim For The Stars Foundation.

Enjoy a day by the beach, look like a glamour queen and help young women to aim for the stars.

More about Us:

Galmatic – Is Australia’s premier pit stop for car care workshops and car products for women. Galmatic is run by local Narrabeen business woman and mother of two Eleni Mitakos.

Our Control Your Car defensive driving course is just for the girls and gets them behind the wheel of their own car, on a race track, under controlled conditions - to experience safe car handling in hazardous conditions.

Aim For The Stars

“Dare to Dream, Pursue their Passion and Aspire to Achieve".

The foundation is about Encompassing academic, sport, cultural and community pursuits, Aim for the Stars offers ambitious and dedicated females an opportunity to receive financial and moral support to help them achieve their goals.

Girl Racer

Georgie — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 12:35:47 GMT

It’s 4.45am Saturday 25^th July... RACE DAY! I hate getting up before the sun but race day is something different.

I have to drive my race car to the track today (thanks to the RTA’s Unregistered Vehicle Permit).

I hop into my Peugeot 206 GTI 180 and begin the journey to Oran Park.

It’s a huge race meeting this weekend at the Festival of Sporting Cars, 250 entrants! This weekend I’m racing against my Father in a Peugeot 306 GTI6 and my Husband Franck who’s driving a WRX STi 2 door (too fast for me!)

Nerves begin to build as I’m waiting for the practice session to start... ‘why do I do this’ I often think, ‘the nerves are almost unbearable!’

The horn sounds and 28 cars move out for practice. Car goes well, feels great. I qualify to begin in 22^nd position (not as good as I would have hoped but not too bad)

First race I get a good start, take 4 cars off the line ... ‘Ah yes, this is why I race... I love it!’ 2 laps in engine problem! OH NO! I pull to the side and watch the rest of the race from the tyre wall.

Thank god my husband is a European Car Specialist, he has my car going smoothly and ready for the next race in under 30 minutes!

Race 2 I start from the rear of the grid having not finished race 1.

Lights go off and we take off from the starting line... yes! Good start again. The car drives really well, no hiccups, this feels great. Pass another 2 cars yes... keep going. Final lap come around to the chequered flag, 19^th! I’m happy with that.

Uh oh, here comes the rain... it’s pouring down! A wet race ahead.

Nerves kick in again, but I feel ok. I don’t have much experience in the wet so I’m just going to go out and have some fun, take it easy I don’t expect to do very well.

Race starts, hey I passed 2 people... my dad is right on my tail, he drives really well in the wet. He gets me on the next corner, I’m going to try and keep up with him. Other cars start spinning off the track in every direction, big powerful Commodores and Falcons are going slower... what’s going on?

Passed another car, this is quite good. Dad’s still in front but he’s not leaving me behind

170kph down the straight into turn one... where’s the corner... I can’t see... car on the inside, got to avoid it!

Yes... Passed another car! Wow the track’s slippery, so much more water than the last race.

Final lap, can I get past this car? No, he’s just a little too fast for me, chequered flag comes down, 9^th overall! Wow, I can’t believe it, never thought I’d make up that many places... what a great weekend!

Some people ask me why I race, why would you want to be involved in such a ‘male’ sport that’s so dangerous???

I guess I don’t see it like that. I’ve always loved cars, and for as long as I can remember my dad has been in and under cars, behind the wheel and absolutely loving the experience.

I’ve always loved the sensation of speed and realised that it’s much safer, and much more fun to do it in a fully prepared race car in a safe environment. Gaining the skill on the track also contributes to your driveability on public roads, you become so much more alert and are able to start reading what other drivers are about to do around you.

I love racing and the people that come with it are so supportive. There are a great bunch of guys that I race with varying in ages from early 30’s right into the 60’s and they all treat you as a equal. There’s no special treatment, they treat you just like they would anyone else out on the track... and if you beat them, you get a big smile and a congratulations.

It’s also a great hobby I’m able to share with my husband and my father, it’s brought us all so much closer together.

So if you’re a woman that loves speed come and join us. It’s much easier to get involved in than most people think and the fun is second to none.

For more information please feel free to visit us as www.europeancarservices.com

Love the Beast

Georgie — Sat, 12 Sep 2009 21:24:25 GMT

I watched Eric Bana’s documentary ‘Love the Beast’ today. It covers his lifelong passion for car racing and his childhood car, a Ford falcon XB Coupe.

I sat down to watch what I thought would be a film about car racing – and found that I was drawn in on several levels and really enjoyed the film.

It delves beautifully into the bond of friendship and family and how a vehicle can be the ‘campfire’ that bonds young men.

The thing that struck me the most about the film is how it made me think about what do young women do as teenagers? Do we have a similar pass time that can bond us like working on, learning about and experimenting with cars does for boys?

The car for a young man can be such a passage of freedom – an escape and also an awakening. It provides them with both a knowledge and passion for cars that allows them to understand them and not fear them. On the whole women do not have this same freedom.

‘Love the Beast’ – beautifully ties in the intimate relationship a young man can develop with his car and by the end of the film, the viewer too feels a bond with Eric’s red beast.

As a man he enjoys the thrill of racing and the documentary has an interview/conversation with Dr Phill and Eric. Dr Phill explains the need people have for a hobby – a love/passion for something other than the chores and work tasks that we do for income. Again what struck me was how frequently women fall out of this category. Eric in the film has the ability to pursue his dream- even as the father of two. How many women who work and have young families have the luxury of pursuing a hobby with the intensity of car racing?

A beautiful film – that made me think. Perhaps Galmatic can help to create a car culture amongst young women, so in time they too can love the beast.

Find the dipstick girls

Georgie — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 22:13:40 GMT

Go on girls - find the dipstick!

Learn cool tips for your car - stay safe and cruise to where your going in style!

Join the Galmatic mailing list and our cool monthly newsletter will drive into your inbox on the first Tuesday of evey month.

Galmatic mailing list

Aim for the Stars

Georgie — Thu, 27 Aug 2009 21:34:25 GMT

Ever had a dream that you knew you could achieve if only….

Perhaps you have watched the Olympics and wanted to ice skate, (I am convinced every 4 years that a triple soucow* is dead easy to do). Or the Rocky franchise of films – I have a photo with the Rocky statue and believe me the stairs to the Philadelphia Museum are very steep indeed – even when humming the dadadadada dad a theme.

There are a lot of girls out there with dreams to fill and a little confused on how to start on the road. As a company run by and for women we were looking to see how we could further help women to feel empowered to do anything and everything they dreamed of.

You can imagine our delight when we saw the mission of Layne Benchley’s Aim for the Stars Foundation:

"Dare to Dream, Pursue their Passion and Aspire to Achieve".

Empower yourself at a Galmatic Car Care Workshop for Women and we will donate $10.00 pp to the Aim for the Stars Foundation.

Subscribe to Layne’s blog and newsletter – find out more about the foundation and pursue your dream http://www.beachleyathletic.com.au/index.php

Stuck!

BlondeOzi — Sun, 05 Jul 2009 18:41:33 GMT

I couldn't believe it when I drove out west - 3hrs out of Sydney mind you - and my car decided to get a flat! I had stopped at one of the look outs as my luck is just brilliant, I managed to get a flat - must have been a slow leak - and I didn't realise that the whistling sound - I thought was a window down in the back - turned out to be me losing air!!

Luckily I had been part of the Galmatic Car Club and had done a Workshop a month previous with a group of girl friends, I knew how to change a tyre!

Thanks Galmatic!:D

The Car as the Sex Object

Georgie — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 23:51:04 GMT

There are so many years example of women on cars, in cars and selling cars. But not all girls are objects used to sell cars and other things to men. There are so many sexy women who use cars as characters of their art, story, personality and lifestyle.

Not too many things sexier or more empowering than a woman in control of her car.

Cars have played a prominent role in the western male subcultures, working often as extensions of boys personalities, reflecting their standing in gangs and often sexual dominance.

A woman’s sexual prowess has by comparison had little artistic representation with cars in literature and film, one exception to this is the music video.

Adalita, from Magic Dirt – who is looking at the car?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UyP35vHwrSo

The perfect position

Georgie — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 13:26:27 GMT

We all know we need to look after our backs when we lift heaving things, but we don’t tend to think too much about our backs when we are driving to the shops or heading out to see our friends. Unfortunately when it comes to the health of our backs, it’s not just the big things that count, the small repetitive things that can sometimes take the greatest toll.

Why is the perfect position so important?

The perfect position is not only important to ensure you are able to operate the vehicle safely, it is also essential to look after your back for the long term.

Your back has been designed to absorb daily shocks and vibrations. Similar to a good set of party feet for your high heels, the spongy discs between each vertebra provide specific level shock absorbance. During the day they do lose their water content thus decreasing their ability to do their job. As the discs do not have a direct blood supply, they need constant movement to stay plump and happy. Sitting in a car all day does not provide adequate movement for your back. The second way your back provides support is via the inward lumbar curve of your lower back. This curve acts similar to a large spring. When we sit in the car, it is very easy to allow our inward curve to straighten, thus losing its ability to spring.

By following these simple points you will ensure that your back is looked after and it can continue supporting you!

· When you get into your car, remember to readjust your seat EVERY time, as your posture will change throughout the day

· Ensure you are seated in the centre of seat with your bottom pushed back in the seat.

· Move the seat forward so your wrists can rest on the top of the steering wheel and your hips are at 90 degrees.

· In newer cars, adjust the lumbar support to ensure you maintain your lumbar curve. If your car does not have an adjustable lumbar support, there are specific products that you can purchase or you can use a rolled up towel to offer support.

· If you are driving for an extended period of time, do get out and walk, move and stretch.

· Keep hydrated.

· Try and keep your stomach muscles switched on.

Shut up and do some driving

Georgie — Wed, 20 May 2009 23:06:22 GMT

It’s a hot look and always has been, from Cha Cha in Grease to this very slick Rhianna clip. Writhing female bodies wrapped phallic like in the tight clothes representative of their era. Whether a Chev or Charger, the chicky babes seem to be the fuel for the car’s ignition – a walking and talking starter motor.

Have we moved forward at all when it comes to our relationship with cars? If Rhianna was to fix a loose hose or tighten a nut under the hood, could she or would she do it in sprayed on leather? Do we women need to be wearing heels to bring some femininity to an otherwise male domain, or by over indulging in the stereotypical female adornments of sexuality are we actually releasing ourselves from the bondage of those dreadful calendars supposedly hung behind every mechanics workshop toilet door? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4WAapKx2TvM

At Galmatic we toyed with what we would and would not use as our uniform. For all many of our photo shoots we have been encouraged to wear the red heels with our navy mechanics shirts and perhaps open the shirts a little more. We chose to go with our 1940’s/1950’s image of the independent post war empowered female. Car savvy and still sexy.

Do you think women have moved far enough away from the toilet door calendar or do we still have a long way to go?

Does your Car fit in the Garage?

Georgie — Thu, 07 May 2009 00:32:33 GMT

Now when it comes to garages - ours must take the cake for the largest number of car parts with the pride of place going to the 1930 Ford. There is even a Holden/Ford battle going on in there! So if our garage is a mess we thought there might be a few more out there too. This led us to have a chat with Helen Maguire, Director or Clarity Matters, a fantastic business that specialises in organising and de-cluttering offices, homes and yes garages.

Clutter, clutter, clutter! Are you overwhelmed by too much stuff, inadequate storage places and no time to spend on putting things away? Sound familiar? You are not alone in this. Many people have challenges in the area of clutter.

Why do we keep things?

Quite often we keep things that we think we might use in the future, yet in a lot of cases have not used in ages. The reasons for this? We don’t like it; it’s out of date; it relates to a past interest; it’s not appropriate for our present stage of life or it’s broken and we’ve never got around to fixing it.

Sometimes we convince ourselves that we might need it one day – but that ‘one day’ still hasn’t arrived. Maybe we could source a new item cheaply on eBay, in garage sales, or in recycling stores.

The main pitfalls:

Having too much stuff
Not storing things in easily accessible, labelled containers
Not putting things away straight away after use
Not making decisions about specific problem items

Three ways to keep the garage organised:

1. Decide what you really need and get rid of the rest

To help yourself with the clean up process – ask yourself:

Am I really going to use this in the future?
Do I really want all this clutter?
Wouldn’t a spacious, organised garage be a refreshing change?

2. Store what you do want to keep systematically.

Use labelled containers where possible.
Have the items you use frequently in a place and at a level that makes it easier to access – according to your height for example.
Compartmentalise – in strong plastic storage containers, boxes, or on shelves that are easily accessible.
Allow yourself a certain quantity of one particular thing, to avoid having an excess of the same item.
Label the boxes – eg. Hardware items, electrical gear, kids toys, picnic gear, sporting goods – to make it easier to find, use or put away.
Train your children to use your system. Make sure they can get to (reach and position) the boxes they need access to.

3. Make yourself finish the job.

Put the items away in their designated place straight away, because every time one item is left lying around, say on the floor, it soon builds up to a mess with another and another and another. Say it, mean it, do it – finish the job!

How to keep your car tidy and clutter free:

Have a plastic bag for rubbish in the car. Keep a store of them in your garage to easily replace used ones.
Finish the job – immediately on arriving home empty the car of everything you took with you, or have bought whilst out and about and put it where it needs to go,
Have a box in the boot (strapped in) for items that need to remain in the car, for example, first aid kit, supply of kid’s toys, picnic rug.
Use the glove box for items to be kept in the front of the car. Remember to keep tidying it out, especially after big trips.

Happy motoring and safe travels! And remember, your trip has only finished when you have put everything away! You’ll be pleased you did!

Greased Lightening

Georgie — Sun, 12 Apr 2009 23:02:19 GMT

Since the 1950’s guys have connected with cars and car clubs, gangs, street racing and

burn-outs, all adding to a young man’s introduction to cars and the freedom they can

provide. Rat Rods, cruisers, panel vans and the Holden Commodore – the list is endless.

But go to a wedding, 21st or any party and it is the girls that know all the words to Greased

Lightening! And that’s one cool car.

Well this car is automatic, it’s systematic, it’s hydromatic

Why it’s greased lightnin’!

We’ll get some overhead lifters, and four barrel quads, oh yeah

Keep talkin’, whoah keep talkin’

Fuel injection cut off, and chrome plated rods, oh yeah

I’ll get the money, I’ll see you get the money

With a four-speed on the floor, they’ll be waitin’ at the door

You know that ain’t shit when we’ll be gettin’ lots of tit in greased lightnin’

Go, greased lightnin’, you’re burnin’ up the quarter mile

Greased lightnin’, go greased lightnin’

Go, greased lightnin’, you’re coastin’ through the heat lap trials

Greased lightnin’, go greased lightnin’

You are supreme, the chicks’ ‘ll cream for greased lightnin’

We’ll get some purple French tail lights and thirty-inch fins, oh yeah

A palomino dashboard and duel muffler twins, oh yeah

With new pistons, plugs, and shocks, I can get off my rocks

You know that I ain’t braggin’, she’s a real pussy wagon - greased lightnin’

Watch it again - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6oWeaujOWXc

Save Money - $1745.00!

Georgie — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 10:06:22 GMT

With the recent rains and the easing of water restrictions, it makes economic sense to start washing your car again! At $35.00 per wash, a weekly visit to the carwash café will cost you $1820.00 a year.

They rarely do a great job and the coffee is usually awful. A weekly wash will keep you fit, enjoying the outdoors and the excess water can be splashed onto the grass.

Grab a Galmatic Day Spa Pack. It is filled with premium Meguiars products and all comes in an oh too cute black Galmatic Tote bag.

The ultimate Car Care Pack to make sure that your car looks show finish all year round. Only $75.00 and will last all year.

Pack includes:

•	1 x Meguairs Soft Wash Gel
•	1 x Meguairs Lamb’s wool Wash Mitt
•	1 x Meguairs Hot Shine Tyre Foam
•	1 x Meguairs Quik Interior Detailer
•	1 x Meguairs Deep Crystal Wet Look (polish)
•	1 x Meguairs Microwipe Super Glide Chamois
•	1 x Galmatic calico bag

Grab a copy of the Galmatic Car Care Handbook for Girls for the best chapter on detailing your Car – We call it ‘Day Spa for your Car’

www.galmatic.com

Galmatic - In the Press

Georgie — Sun, 22 Mar 2009 21:37:25 GMT

All Greased up. Women's Health wanted some 'cool' advice on cars, so of course they gave Galmatic a call!

Crown Sunglasses

Georgie — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 10:23:49 GMT

Pinstripes

These sunglasses mix red hot style style with cool street cred.

Available in Hot Cherry Gloss Red

§ 100% UV protection

§ Glass lenses

§ Custom handmade frames

§ Built tough with dual hinges

Grab a pair at www.galmatic.com

Crown Sunglasses

Georgie — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 10:22:02 GMT

Rat Rods

These sunglasses mix hot style with cool street cred.

Available in Slick Gloss Black

§ 100% UV protection

§ Glass lenses

§ Custom handmade frames

§ Built tough with dual hinges

Grab a pair at www.galmatic.com

Cool Sunglasses

Georgie — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 10:20:07 GMT

Retro Sunglasses

Unleash the 1950’s kitten in you with our cool sunglasses.

Custom designed in the US, Crown Sunglasses combine retro styling with 100% UV protection.

These frames are handmade and feature double hinges.

With names like Fetish Deluxe and Chica Boom, you will need more than one pair!

Moonshine Deluxe

These sunglasses are seriously cool. Stand out from the crowd with a little retro style. 1960’s glamour mixed with a modern twist.

Available in Cool Cobalt Blue

§ 100% UV protection

§ Glass lenses

§ Custom handmade frames

§ Built tough with dual hinges

Grab a pair at www.galmatic.com

Crown Sunglasses

Georgie — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 09:57:37 GMT

Retro Sunglasses

Unleash the 1950’s kitten in you with our cool sunglasses.

Custom designed in the US, Crown Sunglasses combine retro styling with 100% UV protection.

These frames are handmade and feature double hinges.

With names like Fetish Deluxe and Chica Boom, you will need more than one pair!

Fetish Deluxe

The name says it all. These glasses are delicious; perfect for those early mornings. Slips these on with a dash of red lipstick and all of last night’s sins will be disguised!

Available in Luscious Glossy Black

§ 100% UV protection

§ Glass lenses

§ Custom handmade frames

§ Built tough with dual hinges

Grab a pair at www.galmatic.com

Crown Sunglasses

Georgie — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 09:55:21 GMT

Unleash the 1950’s kitten in you with our cool sunglasses.

Custom designed in the US, Crown Sunglasses combine retro styling with 100% UV protection.

These frames are handmade and feature double hinges.

With names like Fetish Deluxe and Chica Boom, you will need more than one pair!

Chica Boom

These sunglasses are red carpet showstoppers. Look like a movie star in shiny black or a screen siren in a Tortoise Shell pair that have a hint of violet on the inside! Very 1950’s.

Available in Shiny Black and Sexy Tortoise Shell

§ 100% UV protection

§ Glass lenses

§ Custom handmade frames

§ Designed to last with dual hinges

Grab a pair at www.galmatic.com

What to do in the event of a Car Accident

Georgie — Tue, 03 Mar 2009 10:40:32 GMT

I’ve had an accident what do I do?

This is the article information that you never want to need, but it is a good idea to read through it so in case you are in an accident, you will be prepared.

Follow these simple rules in the event of a car collision/accident, whether you are involved in the accident as a passenger or as a witness.

A good way to remember the key points of what to do, is to remember that you need to have a

MAAS action plan:

4 Make the scene safe

4 Assess and ask if anyone is injured

4 Assist injured people

4 Send for Help

What to do in the case of an accident

Make the scene safe

• Do not panic. Remain calm and alert.

• Turn off the car engine, put on the handbrake and put on your indicators or hazard lights and headlights (especially if it’s dark) to warn other vehicles of the accident. Some new cars have a safety triangle that you can place on the road.

• Exit the car if you can. If you are trapped in the vehicle try to stay relaxed and wait for help.

• Do not smoke around any petrol/oil spills or naked flames.

Assess and ask if anyone is injured

Make a quick assessment of the scene and look for any trapped or injured people in the vehicles involved. Have a look around the scene to see if there is anyone looking disorientated, or perhaps an injured pedestrian lying close by.

Assist injured people

If someone involved in the accident is unconscious or seriously hurt, only move them if they are in immediate danger.

When moving an injured person, be cautious around any obvious cuts, open wounds or broken bones. Be very careful not to twist the neck or back of an injured person.

If a motorcyclist has been hurt, lift their helmet visor to see if they are OK, but do not remove their helmet.

Send for Help

Safety Tip

Be aware that other vehicles and pedestrians will still be using the road. Be careful around the accident site. Do not stand in the middle of the road looking at your car. Find a safe area to stand or sit as you wait for assistance.

Calling Emergency Services (000)

Be calm and clear when ringing for help and remember to state:

• The location of the accident, with the nearest cross street if you know it.

• Number of people trapped or injured.

• Any fallen powerlines or flammable liquids spilling.

What information do I need?

If your car was involved in the accident then there are a few more things that you need to do before you leave the scene.

It is important to exchange details with the other driver/s involved in the accident.

Try to remember the sequence of events of the accident. Use diagrams or photos to capture accident details that might otherwise be forgotten.

How do I fix my car?

Most of the time you will find that tow trucks appear out of nowhere after an accident, but if it has been some time since the accident and none have arrived then you will need to call one.

Most tow trucks will have a preferred panel beater that they refer business to, but it is not compulsory that you send your car there. You have the choice of where to have your car repaired and it is handy to choose a repairer close to home or work.

If you have all the particulars that you need from the other drivers involved, and your car is not too damaged then you can drive your car home.

Once you have either driven your car home or had it towed to a repair shop, it is time to start thinking about your insurance claim.

• Check your insurance documents to confirm whom you are insured with.

• Jump onto the internet or give your insurance company a call and they will help you with the details to make a claim.

Not sure what all of the different insurances mean? Here is a quick rundown:

Comprehensive car insurance – protects you in the event of an accident for damage to both your car and other cars and property.

Third party car insurance - protects you in the event of an accident for damage to another person’s car or property, but not your own.

Information from Galmatic – the Car Care Handbook for Girls available from www.galmatic.com

Over the limit

Georgie — Tue, 03 Mar 2009 10:37:15 GMT

We are all becoming very aware of the dangers of drink driving and being under the influence of drugs and alcohol whilst driving.

Did you know however that extreme tiredness or ‘Fatigue’ can have equal effects on your concentration and reaction times as being over the alcohol limit?

Fatigue driving is simply when your too tired to concentrate whilst driving.

It is really important to watch out for tired signs.

Keep an eye out for:

• Feeling sleepy.

• Sore eyes.

• Lack of concentration.

• Feeling uncomfortable in your chair.

• Small black outs.

• Swerving the car.

The above are all signs that it is time to pull over, get out of the car and perhaps grab something to eat or drink (not alcoholic) and have a break from driving.

If you are going on a long trip, get a good night’s sleep beforehand. Avoid driving late at night when you would normally be sleeping.

I'll just do it in the Car

Georgie — Tue, 03 Mar 2009 10:36:14 GMT

We know the feeling, you’re running late and you think, I’ll just do it in the car. It is always worth taking an extra 2 minutes at the start of a journey to get yourself ready before you start driving, rather than trying to drive whilst juggling a phone, eating a sandwich and putting on mascara.

Do not answer your phone whilst driving, even though you may think that you can drive and talk, your focus will not be on the road, your destination, the route you need to take and the other drivers, but rather on your conversation.

If you need to talk or text: pull over.

Make-up application whilst driving is not illegal, but at times can be just as dangerous, as not only is your focus off the road, but usually so are your eyes. Take the extra 5 minutes at home before you leave. An accident will make you more than 5 minutes late and your make-up won’t look as good as if you had put it on at home anyway.

NB. Do not leave any make-up in your car, as it will melt very quickly and perfume will change colour and will smell awful.

Munching on food in the car usually ends in some disaster; stained clothes, smelly vehicle, ruined upholstery, sticky bits, ants, crumbs and drips that you can’t get to. A bottle of water in the car is always the safest food to have, you can enjoy a sip at the lights and if you spill it at least it won’t stain!

Just because cars have ashtrays in them, it doesn’t mean that you have to use them. Smoking in a car is a fire hazard, makes the car stink, the flying ash makes the car dirty and old stubs in the ashtray are hard to get out. If you must smoke in the car keep a spare water bottle with an inch of water in it and place used cigarette butts in there. The water will make sure that the butts do not stay lit and the bottle is then easy to dispose of.

Do you have any great tips or perhaps times when a small distraction in the car has ended badly? Jump onto our blog or forum and tell us about it. All March blog and forum uses will go into the draw to win a Galmatic First Aid Kit – perfect for those car emergencies!

A Little Retro-a-go-go!

Kirsten — Fri, 06 Feb 2009 06:42:19 GMT

Even if you haven’t seen the hit show, Mad Men, we are certain that you have heard about it. Besides winning recent Emmys and quickly becoming a critical darling, it gushes with delicious retro style and fashion. Today’s pop culture is also beaming with burlesque nuances, and pin-up girls are popping up in advertisements everywhere. Retro is back and has a strong future.

Okay, maybe at this moment in time, in this economic crunch, we can’t all drive a hot vintage ride with giant fins and loads of chrome—or for that matter—stretch a 100% cashmere sweater over our darted brazier and head into the office.

But what we can do is liberate our wardrobe and have some fun with our everyday wear by bringing in some creative retro flair with Retro-a-go-go!

If you haven’t checked us out yet, you should. We are a little gem of a female-owned company based in Detroit , the motor city. We have a big eye on fashion and are part of the extensive retro car culture. Retro-a-go-go! is pouring over with must-have accessories like; necklaces, rings and designer tees, even hotrod picture frames. With a playful mix of retro imagery, like pouty-lipped pin-ups and gorgeous-gammed vixens, combined with contemporary styling.

Our on-line collection will delight your eyes while pleasing your pocketbook. Add a retro exclamation point to any of your favorite outfits—even jeans and a t-shirt become something extra special with Retro-a-go-go.com

Best,
Kirsten

[url=http://www.retroagogo.com][img]http://www.retroagogo.com/images/links/Retro-a-go-goBanner.gif[/img][/url]

Children and Road Safety

Georgie — Tue, 03 Feb 2009 22:51:23 GMT

Week two of being a ‘school mum’ and the school drop off and pick up ordeal has opened my eyes to some of the amazingly stupid things people do in car parks; especially when there are little people around.

What is it that makes people who otherwise would do anything to keep their kids safe, go crazy when they jump behind the wheel of a car in a school car park?

There are too many cars, not enough spaces and then the ‘kiss and drop’ section to negotiate.

The tips I have worked out so far are:

§ Get to school 10 mins earlier (if you can) than most of the parents. You will find a car spot and it’s a good chance to breathe and have some thinking time

§ Do not park in no standing/stopping areas, it makes it stressful for all the other drivers around you

§ Only cross at the designated areas, even if it means walking a little further

§ Hold your child’s hand and explain to them why crossing the road and walking through car parks is dangerous and why it is important to follow the rules

§ If children go to do something dangerous don’t scream at them (even though it is very tempting). Rather come down to their eye level and explain why road safety is so important. It is crucial to build children’s awareness about cars from an early age and not to have them associate anger with cars and driving

§ Look around you before you reverse or move the car in any direction. Check all blind spots and reverse slowly

Would love to hear any tips that you have.

Lounge music to cruise the streets with.

Koop Kooper — Mon, 26 Jan 2009 21:38:17 GMT

This week we delve into the world of easy listening orchestoral pop with expert and author on the subject Jack Crosley from New York...new release to dvd for 2009 that I am sure will interest you...some news from Mr Bongo Jack Costanzo and ofcourse a look at the world of swank.

www.cocktailnation.net

Project Pimento-A Shot In The Dark
Scott Morschauvser-Somas Las Bolas
Frank Purcel-Only You
Jackie Davis-Love is just around the corner
Mantovani - Andalucia
Jack Costanzo-Can Can Overture
Don Tiki—Bam-Boozled
Arthur Lyman-Fire down below
Eartha Kitt-April in Portugal
Robert Drasnin-Warm Night Wind
Si Zenter-I've found a new baby
Diana Krall-You're My Thrill
Royal Crown Revue-Take a long drink for me
Sally Street-I'm a Woman
Mark Copeland-Without a song

Theft in a car park

Georgie — Sun, 01 Feb 2009 20:47:39 GMT

There I was at the Wiggles concert, clapping and singing, and outside in the RSL car park someone was stealing the fog lights from my car!

They pried off the bumper bar and took out the lights, including wiring, right there in the middle of the outdoor car park. Bumper bar back on they took off, fog lights in hand.

So there the car is looking quite nude and vulnerable and I think how much would new lights cost? Why would you bother stealing them?

$150.00 per light! That’s why.

I’d like to tell them to go fog themselves.

Oh and don’t be fooled, Wiggles concert doesn’t mean a child friendly car park!

No time to keep your care clean !!

East Coast Detailers — Tue, 20 Jan 2009 12:27:11 GMT

Hi girls.

If you are so busy that you dont have time to keep your car clean just give us a call at East Coast Detailers. We can help you look after your car with a minimum of fuss and cost. Remember that if your car is clean you also feel better cos it is nice to drive a clean car, and if it is polished will be protected from the sun and the rain.

We will also check the air in your tyres to make sure they are the correct pressure (no extra cost). Incorrect tyre pressure can cost you money in tyre wear and also can be dangerous. It will also save you on fuel cost.

We can also check your oil levels so you know when to get a mechanic to look at your car (no extra cost).

so give us a call at East Coast Detailers on 0411 835 864 and we will make your driving happy and safe.

free pick up and delivery of your car.

Days of Thunder

Georgie — Wed, 07 Jan 2009 21:49:38 GMT

I couldn't help myself as 'Days of Thunder' started the other the night. It was the late movie and I heard the sounds of Daytona as I was lingering in the other room.
I was getting ready for the next day’s workshop and before I knew it, there I was watching Cole Trickle cruising onto the race track in those tight jeans; ready to rule the track.
Apart from the reminiscence back to my youth (yes old enough to have seen it at the movies) it made me think - how far do the Cole Trickles of the world make it? Is passion, charisma and sheer determination enough?
If you haven't seen the movie, it's where Kidman met her Mr Cruise.
Trickle is one hell of a driver ready to take on Nascar racing (which he has no experience in) and as the rookie spends the 1st half of the movie driving with conviction, passion and a lust to win, (but never manages to finish a race).
At this point you find out that he has no car knowledge; no idea how a car works at all - just adrenalin and the thrill of speed in his veins.
No need to add that of course there are many life lessons along the way and many victories (it is a Tom Cruise movie from the 1980's); but in life, is just the drive enough?

Why do we love these movies?
At our workshops - the ones we have the most fun with are when we have a bunch of girls who love driving; windows open, music pumping - looking like Pink in the Get the Party started video. Their knowledge is usually close to zero but their enthusiasm is 100%.
Do you have a project you need to get off the ground? Hire out Days of Thunder - you might just get the cruise you need.

Hot in the City

Georgie — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 20:06:28 GMT

As the summer heat sets in we start thinking about sun care and using sunscreen with high SPF.

Sun creams work to either absorb or reflect UV rays. Make sure you wear a broad-spectrum cream that protects you from both UVA and UVB rays.

UVA rays – cause photo ageing of the skin, or what we commonly call pre mature ageing which is dark spots, loss of elasticity and wrinkles. UVA rays can penetrate cloud and go deep into the Dermis of the skin (where your collagen is).

UVB rays – cause sun tan and burn, cannot penetrate cloud and do not go through to the Dermis.

Your car needs sun protection too. Both the tyres and paintwork discolour and crack.

For your tyres

Tyre colour care products come in a variety of formulations.

They are designed to intensify the colour of your tyres and some also work to prevent browning, cracking and tyre premature ageing.

Tyre colour care products also help to protect tyres from environmental damage, especially UV, much like SPF products work to protect your skin. The most common products are tyre paint or tyre foam.

Tyre paint (always black) comes in a tin, just like house paint and needs to be applied with a paintbrush. This is the most labour intensive way to blacken your tyres, but it will certainly leave a wonderful finish.

For your paintwork

Car waxes are like moisturisers for your car and work as a protective barrier for your cars skin to fight off free radicals and especially protect your cars paint from UV damage and salt air.

Waxing your car

You wax your car the same way that you polish it, with the only difference being in the removal process. You do not remove the wax completely as you want to leave behind a protective coating.

1. Apply wax with a clean cloth.

2. Rub the wax onto the paint in small circular motions.

3. Remove the wax with a separate clean cloth leaving a light coat.

4. Move onto the next section. Try to concentrate on one panel at a time just like polishing.

The paintwork will be very shiny when you have finished!

We stock premium Meguiars car care products – the perfect anti ageing skincare for your car!

Keep your Car Fire Safe

Georgie — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 19:56:30 GMT

As the weeks start to heat up, fire awareness becomes a priority in Australia. We check the batteries in our home fire alarms, we have fire drills at work where the fire warden gets to wear their yellow fire hat and high - vis vest and we watch the devastation that bush fire causes on the news; we do not however always take simple precautions to safeguard our homes and cars.

For your car

§ Smoking in a car is a fire hazard. Do not butt out cigarettes in the ashtray; rather keep a water bottle half filled with water in the car and throw your butts in there. The water will distinguish the butt, the lid will prevent any spillage and the bottle is then easy to dispose

§ Do not keep petrol or other flammable liquids in the boot of the car

§ If you park your car in a garage or under a carport, keep the gutters free of leaves and debris

§ Keep a fire extinguisher in the car. You will need a dry chemical powder extinguisher as they are non conductive. Do not use water on an electrical/fuel fire. Extinguishers are available from hardware stores and car care stores and are safe to store in the car

§ Keep a well stocked First Aid Kit in the car for any emergencies. We have a fabulous one that is perfect for the car or Kitchen www.galmatic.com/products.html.
Do you use your car for work? If you do, a car First Aid Kit is compulsory and tax deductible.

Hot websites for Cool Chicks

Georgie — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 19:52:41 GMT

As you can imagine Galmatic HQ is run by women, so of course we like to shop, gossip and buy things for our babies!
Here are our favourite websites - happy browsing.

www.onthe7thdaysheshopped.com

This retro style website is an online directory of beautiful online boutiques that stock clothes, gifts and special treasures. Saves you from doing the online search!

www.primped.com.au

This site is edited by the former editor of Cosmopolitan magazine and is great for expert beauty advice and how-to tips for celebrity hair styles, makeup techniques, fashion show trends, hair care, skin care, fragrance.

www.myinvites.com.au

Design and send beautiful online party invitations to your friends – this website is a free service and very environmentally friendly.

www.shophouse.com.au

Big style for little people. This site has the cutest clothes and accessories for babies and kids. All the Galmatic babies get dressed here!

www.stopstaring.com

If you’re looking for gorgeous 1950’s retro style clothing, then this site is for you. All the rockabilly chicks in the office love these dresses. Very sexy femme fatale!

Double Demerit Points

Georgie — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 19:50:45 GMT

Yes it is that time of year on the roads again when double demerit points come into force.
The Demerit Points Scheme is a national program that allocates penalty points (demerits) for a range of driving offences.

Drivers on a full c class license can accumulate 12 demerits over 3 years before license loss occurs. This year double points apply from:
Friday 19th December 2008 to Sunday 4th January 2009.

Here is a list of the main offences, their fines and demerits.

Exceed speed limit 15km/h

6 points $486

Driver not wearing a seatbelt

6 points $486

Each passenger not wearing a seat belt

6 points $486

Drive using a hand held mobile phone

3 points $ 486

Make U-turn contrary to sign

2 points $189

Drive with a sound system emitting excessive sound

2 points $150

Santa Baby

Georgie — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 19:48:25 GMT

Yes Santa Claus is coming and its our first birthday too - We have fabulous gifts for that girl in your life; sisters, girlfriends, daughters, mums and a gorgeous offer too!

Too many drinks over Christmas to drive home needn’t be a worry with the SmartGirl Roadside Emergency Kit. The kit contains a 350ml bottle of spring water, premium aluminum free deodorant, tampons, aromatherapy headache and stress remedy and a lip conditioner.

All in all it contains 24 great products to cover any emergency or urgency that a girl may have (including breath mints and a Pink Lady chocolate heart for those extreme chocolate cravings) and it all comes packed in the coolest little tin lunch box.

We have a complimentry copy of the Galmatic Car Care Handbook all wrapped up for you with every SmartGirl Roadside Kit purchased in the month of December!

The Galmatic Handbook is perfect for anyone who has just learnt to drive, or perhaps for the girl that needs to know a little more about cars. It’s the glove box essential for any girl with a car.

Check out the website for all our other car care products too.

Also - All Christmas orders will arrive in a black Galmatic cotton tote bag and wrapped in brown paper and string with a beautiful christmas card; very 1950’s. Simply type ‘Christmas’ in the comments box.

Happy Shopping!

Christmas presents for Girls

Georgie — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 00:03:32 GMT

Yes Santa Claus is coming (oh I hope he looks like Elvis), in only 7 weeks time!

We have fabulous gifts for that girl in your life; sisters, girlfriends, daughters, mums.

Too many drinks over Christmas to drive home needn’t be a worry with the Roadside Emergency Kit. The kit contains a 350ml bottle of spring water, premium aluminum free deodorant, tampons, aromatherapy headache and stress remedy and a lip conditioner.

Check out the website for all our other car care products too.

All Christmas orders will arrive in a black Galmatic cotton tote bag and wrapped in brown paper and string; very 1950’s. Simply type ‘Christmas’ in the comments box.

Happy Shopping!

Stay sun smart

Georgie — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 00:00:12 GMT

As the summer heat sets in we start thinking about sun care and using sunscreen with high SPF.

Sun creams work to either absorb or reflect UV rays. Make sure you wear a broad-spectrum cream that protects you from both UVA and UVB rays.

UVB rays – cause sun tan and burn, cannot penetrate cloud and do not go through to the Dermis.

Your car needs sun protection too. Both the tyres and paintwork discolour and crack.

For your tyres

Tyre colour care products come in a variety of formulations.

They are designed to intensify the colour of your tyres and some also work to prevent browning, cracking and tyre premature ageing.

Tyre colour care products also help to protect tyres from environmental damage, especially UV, much like SPF products work to protect your skin. The most common products are tyre paint or tyre foam.

For your paintwork

Car waxes are like moisturisers for your car and work as a protective barrier for your cars skin to fight off free radicals and especially protect your cars paint from UV damage and salt air.

Waxing your car

You wax your car the same way that you polish it, with the only difference being in the removal process. You do not remove the wax completely as you want to leave behind a protective coating.

1. Apply wax with a clean cloth.

2. Rub the wax onto the paint in small circular motions.

3. Remove the wax with a separate clean cloth leaving a light coat.

4. Move onto the next section. Try to concentrate on one panel at a time just like polishing.

The paintwork will be very shiny when you have finished!

We stock premium Meguiars car care products – the perfect anti ageing skincare for your car!

Keep your car fire safe

Georgie — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 20:58:41 GMT

Keep your car fire safe

In the car

§ Do not keep petrol or other flammable liquids in the boot of the car

§ If you park your car in a garage or under a carport, keep the gutters free of leaves and debris

§ Keep a well stocked First Aid Kit in the car for any emergencies. We have a fabulous one that is perfect for the car or kitchen www.galmatic.com/products.html